Köprülü Canyon National Park

Köprülü Canyon National Park is located around Beşkonak and Bozyaka in the Manavgat district of Antalya. The most frequently visited rafting facilities and riverside areas extend along the Köprüçay River.

Visitors driving from Antalya should follow the Antalya–Manavgat road. Approximately five kilometres after passing Serik, turn north at the sign for Taşağıl–Beşkonak–Köprülü Canyon National Park. Continue for approximately 37 kilometres to reach Beşkonak and the Köprüçay area.

The main transport options are:

• By car: Follow the Serik–Taşağıl–Beşkonak route. The final sections of the road can be winding and narrow in places.

• By organised tour: Rafting and adventure tours with transfers operate from Antalya, Belek, Side, Manavgat, Alanya and Kemer.

• By public transport: Limited local services may travel from Manavgat or Serik towards Beşkonak. Timetables can change seasonally, so relying entirely on public transport for a same-day return may not be practical.

• By taxi or private transfer: Direct transport can be arranged from the hotel areas. A return vehicle should be organised in advance.

• By tour vehicle: Many rafting tours include hotel pickup, transport to the activity centre and a return transfer.

Approximate distances:

Searching only for “Köprülü Canyon” in a navigation application may lead to different viewpoints. If you are visiting for rafting, save the meeting point provided by the operator. Oluk Bridge, Selge and Tazi Canyon should be saved as separate destinations.

Entrance to Köprülü Canyon National Park is free. A standard museum or archaeological-site ticket is not required to enter the national park or see the general landscape areas.

The national park does not have a single opening and closing time like a gated museum with a ticket office. Rafting companies, restaurants, campsites, car parks and other private businesses follow their own operating schedules.

Daylight hours are recommended for safer driving, clearer views of the river conditions and easier exploration of natural areas. Some roads, paths and riverside locations may not be sufficiently illuminated after sunset.

The Köprüçay River is one of Türkiye’s best-known rafting routes because of its strong, spring-fed flow throughout the year. The length of the rafting route and the sections used can change according to the operator, water level, weather conditions and selected programme.

Before choosing a rafting tour, check:

• Whether hotel transfer is included

• The approximate rafting distance

• Total tour duration

• Lunch and drinks

• Helmet, paddle and life jacket

• Guide and insurance services

• Age and height requirements for children

• Swimming breaks

• Additional activities such as zipline, buggy or jeep safari

• Photography and video charges

• Cancellation and weather policies

• Return time

Visitors may enter the water in calm sections of the Köprüçay River approved by the operator or local staff. However, because the river is fed by natural springs, the water can remain very cold even in summer. Currents, slippery stones, sudden changes in depth and rafting-boat traffic can create serious risks.

Swim only where the operator or responsible staff confirm that conditions are suitable. Helmets and life jackets should not be removed during rafting. Never jump into the river from bridges, cliffs or uncontrolled sections of the riverbank.

Köprülü Canyon National Park is one of Antalya’s most comprehensive outdoor destinations, combining the Köprüçay River, steep canyon walls, natural cypress forests, Roman bridges, Selge Ancient City and a wide variety of nature sports.

The region covers approximately 366,000 decares and was declared a national park in 1973. Its natural formations, archaeological remains and the rich vegetation of the Taurus Mountains are protected within the same area.

What Is Köprülü Canyon National Park?

Köprülü Canyon National Park protects the canyon valley created by the Köprüçay River between Bolasan and Beşkonak, together with the surrounding natural, historical and cultural landscape.

The principal features of the national park include:

• A canyon approximately 14 kilometres long

• Steep canyon walls rising more than 100 metres

• The Köprüçay River

• Natural cypress forests

• Selge Ancient City

• Oluk and Büğrüm bridges

• The St. Paul Trail

• Adam Rocks

• Endemic plants

• Wildlife

• Rafting and outdoor-sport routes

Köprülü Canyon is more than a riverside rafting destination. The national park covers a wide section of the Taurus Mountains with areas at substantially different elevations.

Where Is Köprülü Canyon?

Köprülü Canyon is located around Beşkonak and Bozyaka within the boundaries of the Manavgat district of Antalya. It is approximately 63 kilometres northwest of Manavgat town centre.

The Köprüçay River rises in the Taurus Mountains, flows through the canyon and reaches the Mediterranean south of Serik. Many rafting facilities are positioned along both sides of the river around Beşkonak.

As the canyon covers a large area, the intended destination should be selected before departure. The rafting centre, Oluk Bridge, Selge Ancient City and Tazi Canyon are not located at the same point.

Is Köprülü Canyon a Natural Monument or a National Park?

Köprülü Canyon officially has national park status. The region was designated as a national park to protect its canyon formations, river system, forests, plant and animal species and archaeological heritage.

Although the canyon itself is an important natural heritage site, its official conservation category is not a natural monument. It is protected as Köprülü Canyon National Park.

National park status means that activities such as lighting fires, camping, hunting, construction, vehicle use and removing natural materials are subject to specific rules.

When Was Köprülü Canyon Declared a National Park?

An area of approximately 366,140 decares surrounding Köprülü Canyon was declared a national park in 1973.

The protected status was not based solely on the canyon scenery. The Köprüçay River, natural cypress forests, Selge Ancient City, Roman bridges, historical roads and the region’s biodiversity also contributed to the decision.

The boundaries of the national park extend across a varied landscape, from river valleys to high areas of the Taurus Mountains.

How Was Köprülü Canyon Formed?

Köprülü Canyon was formed as the Köprüçay River eroded layers of rock over long geological periods, eventually creating a deep gorge.

The river is fed by surface water as well as springs emerging from the canyon walls and underground sources. These springs help maintain the strong and cool flow of the river throughout the year.

The predominantly limestone geology contributed to the formation of steep slopes, narrow passages, natural springs and distinctive rock formations. Canyon walls exceeding 100 metres in some sections create an impressive view from river level.

What Is the Köprüçay River and Where Does It Flow?

The Köprüçay is a river that rises in the Taurus Mountains, passes through Köprülü Canyon and reaches the Mediterranean. It was historically known as the Eurymedon River.

Important characteristics of the Köprüçay include:

• Being fed by natural springs

• Flowing throughout the year

• Containing sections suitable for rafting

• Supporting the canyon ecosystem

• Being surrounded by historical bridges

• Reaching the Mediterranean south of Serik

The speed and level of the river can vary according to rainfall, season and spring conditions.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Köprülü Canyon?

Köprülü Canyon can be visited throughout the year. However, the best period can differ for rafting, hiking, camping and historical routes.

• Spring: Strong river flow, green landscapes and cool weather

• Summer: The busiest rafting season; the water remains cool, while the weather can be hot and the area crowded

• Autumn: Suitable for hiking, photography and a quieter experience

• Winter: Fewer visitors, although rain, high water and road conditions should be checked

• Morning: Lower visitor numbers and cooler temperatures

• Weekdays: May be quieter than weekends during the summer season

Before travelling for rafting, confirm that the tour is operating and that river conditions are suitable. Programmes may be changed because of heavy rain or unsafe water levels.

How Much Is the Köprülü Canyon National Park Entrance Fee?

Entrance to Köprülü Canyon National Park is free. No standard admission ticket is required to visit the general national park areas or open-air landmarks such as Oluk Bridge.

Services that may require payment include:

• Rafting

• Canoeing and canyoning

• Zipline

• Buggy safari

• Jeep safari

• Campsites

• Bungalows or guesthouses

• Restaurants

• Guiding

• Private transfer

• Parking

• Professional photography and video

When booking a tour, check whether transfer, lunch, equipment, insurance and additional activities are included rather than looking only at the headline price.

What Are the Opening Hours of Köprülü Canyon?

Köprülü Canyon does not have fixed opening hours covering the entire national park because it is not a museum with a single entrance gate and ticket office.

Rafting companies, restaurants, campsites and private facilities follow their own operating schedules. Rafting tours are generally arranged as programmes beginning with a morning transfer and finishing in the afternoon or early evening.

Daylight hours are safer for driving, identifying paths and recognising riverside hazards. Limited lighting and changes in mobile-phone reception can create difficulties during a night visit.

Can You Swim at Köprülü Canyon?

Yes, visitors can enter the water in calm sections of the Köprüçay River that operators or responsible staff consider safe. However, not every part of the river is suitable for swimming.

The principal risks include:

• Strong and changing currents

• Cold water

• Slippery stones

• Sudden changes in depth

• Submerged rocks

• Rafting-boat traffic

• Steep sections that make leaving the water difficult

Do not enter a fast-flowing section without a guide. Visitors who cannot swim should not approach the river without a life jacket.

What Is the Water Temperature at Köprülü Canyon?

The Köprüçay River is fed by underground springs, so its water remains noticeably cool even in summer. However, providing a single water temperature for the entire year would be inaccurate.

Water temperature can vary according to:

• Season

• Air temperature

• Rainfall

• The section of the river being measured

• Spring-water inflows

• Time of day

• Water level and flow speed

Although the weather may be very hot during a summer rafting tour, the first contact with the water can feel unexpectedly cold. Wear quick-drying clothing and bring a dry change of clothes for after the activity.

How Is Rafting Done at Köprülü Canyon?

Rafting at Köprülü Canyon is generally experienced by joining a guided tour operated by a professional or licensed company. Participants receive a helmet, life jacket and paddle, followed by a safety briefing before entering the river.

A standard rafting programme may include:

1. Transfer from the hotel or meeting point

2. Arrival at the rafting centre

3. Equipment distribution

4. Safety briefing

5. Transport to the starting point

6. Guided rafting

7. Swimming or rest break

8. Lunch

9. Photography and video presentation

10. Return transfer to the hotel

Routes and inclusions differ between operators. Before booking, review the complete itinerary rather than relying only on the words “rafting tour.”

Is Köprülü Canyon Rafting Suitable for Beginners?

Most standard commercial rafting programmes at Köprülü Canyon are organised so that beginners can participate with a guide. Previous rafting experience is generally not required.

However, suitability depends on:

• Current water level

• Participant’s age

• Physical health

• Swimming ability

• Pregnancy

• Heart, spinal or mobility conditions

• The operator’s safety rules

Visitors with medical conditions should inform the operator before booking. The guide and safety team may make the final decision regarding participation.

What Should You Wear for Köprülü Canyon Rafting?

Choose clothing that can become wet without causing discomfort and does not restrict movement.

Items to bring include:

• Swimwear or shorts

• Quick-drying T-shirt

• Closed shoes that will remain secure in the water

• Towel

• Dry underwear

• Change of clothes

• Sunscreen

• Retaining strap for sunglasses

• Waterproof phone case

• Essential personal medication

• Small amount of cash

Flip-flops and open shoes that can easily come off are not suitable for rafting. Valuable items and electronic devices should not be taken onto the river.

Is Köprülü Canyon Suitable for Children?

Köprülü Canyon can be visited by families. Picnics, viewpoints, short walks and landmarks such as Oluk Bridge can be planned with children.

Each rafting operator may apply different age, height, weight and health requirements. The river level can also affect whether children are permitted to join the tour.

During a visit with children:

• Provide constant supervision beside the river.

• Children should not enter the water without a life jacket.

• Take care on slippery stones.

• Provide protection from the sun and heat.

• Use equipment suitable for the child’s age.

• Confirm the tour’s age requirements before booking.

Are Camping and Accommodation Available at Köprülü Canyon?

Tent campsites, bungalows, guesthouses and accommodation facilities operated by rafting companies may be available inside the national park and around Beşkonak.

Before booking accommodation, ask about:

• Tent pitch or tent rental

• Showers and toilets

• Electricity

• Hot water

• Food and drink services

• Vehicle parking

• Distance from the river

• Mobile-phone and internet reception

• Fire regulations

• Night entry and exit times

• Pet conditions

Use authorised campsites or accommodation facilities instead of setting up a tent without permission inside the protected area.

Can You Have a Picnic or Barbecue at Köprülü Canyon?

Authorised day-use and picnic areas may be available at Köprülü Canyon. However, visitors should not assume that barbecues or open fires are permitted throughout the national park.

Lighting fires and entering certain areas may be temporarily prohibited during periods of high wildfire risk. On the day of the visit:

• Check current wildfire restrictions.

• Use only authorised areas.

• Do not light fires on the ground or inside the forest.

• Do not leave glass, plastic or cigarette ends.

• Remove all rubbish from the area.

• Check the rules of private riverside facilities.

Having a portable barbecue does not mean it can be used at every location.

Can You Go Hiking at Köprülü Canyon?

The national park contains nature walks of different lengths and difficulty levels. The areas around Selge, Oluk Bridge, Adam Rocks and the St. Paul Trail are particularly notable for hiking and nature observation.

When planning a walk, check:

• Route length

• Elevation difference

• Mobile-phone reception

• Water sources

• Weather forecast

• Return time

• Need for a local guide

• Location of the parked vehicle

• Private property and village crossings

Do not enter unmarked routes inside the canyon alone. Consider the midday heat in summer and rain or slippery ground during winter.

What Is Oluk Bridge?

Oluk Bridge is a historical stone bridge over the Köprüçay River dating from the Roman period. Its narrow arch and location above the river make it one of the most photographed landmarks in the national park.

The bridge is more than a viewpoint. It formed part of the historical road system connecting ancient Selge with the coastal cities of Pamphylia. The surrounding rock passages and turquoise river provide an impressive setting for a short photography stop.

Vehicle, pedestrian and tour-group congestion may occur on and around the bridge. Do not cross the barriers or jump from the bridge into the river.

Is Selge Ancient City Close to Köprülü Canyon?

Selge Ancient City is located in the mountainous section of Köprülü Canyon National Park, around the modern settlement of Altınkaya. It is reached by following a winding mountain road beyond the Oluk Bridge area.

Principal remains at Selge include:

• Ancient theatre

• Traces of the agora

• Temple remains

• Cisterns

• Stone-paved roads

• Historical architectural fragments

• Taurus Mountain views

A Selge visit is not automatically included in a rafting programme. It should be planned separately, with the driving and return time taken into account.

Does the St. Paul Trail Pass Through Köprülü Canyon?

Yes. Approximately 45 kilometres of the St. Paul Trail lie within the boundaries of Köprülü Canyon National Park.

The long-distance walking route follows historical paths associated with St. Paul’s first missionary journeys through Anatolia. Sections inside the park connect ancient roads, villages, forests and mountainous terrain.

Long routes require hiking experience, current route records, suitable equipment and an accommodation plan. Walking the St. Paul Trail requires more preparation than a short rafting excursion.

What Are the Plants and Animals of Köprülü Canyon Like?

Köprülü Canyon National Park has a rich ecosystem extending from valleys close to sea level to areas reaching approximately 2,500 metres in elevation.

Important natural features include:

• Approximately 400 hectares of natural cypress forest

• Numerous endemic and rare plants

• Wild goats

• Krüper’s nuthatch

• Griffon vultures

• Black salamander species associated with the region

• Different birds living in river and forest ecosystems

Do not collect plants, feed wild animals or approach areas where wildlife has been observed.

How Long Do You Need at Köprülü Canyon?

One to two hours may be sufficient for a short scenic stop and a visit to Oluk Bridge. Standard programmes including rafting, transfers and lunch generally require most of the day.

Visitors travelling from Antalya or Alanya should also include transport time in their schedule.

What Do Köprülü Canyon Reviews Usually Mention?

Visitor reviews frequently highlight the canyon scenery, cold and clear river water, rafting experience, forested surroundings and Roman bridges.

Commonly praised features include:

• Rafting route

• Cool river water

• Canyon walls

• Oluk Bridge views

• Natural surroundings

• Activities suitable for families and groups of friends

• Tours with transfers from Antalya

Common concerns include summer crowds, long transfer times, cold water, photography and video charges, changing facilities at some activity centres and differences in service quality between tours.

When choosing a tour, review recent comments and service details rather than relying only on the overall rating.

What Can You Visit Near Köprülü Canyon?

The main attractions around Köprülü Canyon include:

• Oluk Bridge

• Büğrüm Bridge

• Selge Ancient City

• Adam Rocks

• Tazi Canyon

• St. Paul Trail

• Beşkonak

• Altınkaya

• Köprüçay River

• Manavgat Waterfall

• Side Ancient City

• Temple of Apollo

• Aspendos Ancient Theatre

• Zeytintaşı Cave

Tazi Canyon, Selge and the rafting starting points are not in the same location. Calculate the driving and activity time separately when adding several stops to the same day.

Can You Visit Köprülü Canyon on a Day Trip from Antalya?

Yes. Köprülü Canyon can be visited on a day trip from Antalya. Visitors travelling by car can leave early and combine rafting, Oluk Bridge and a short exploration of the surrounding area.

A sample programme can be arranged as follows:

• Morning departure from Antalya

• Arrival in Beşkonak

• Safety briefing

• Rafting

• Lunch

• Visit to Oluk Bridge

• Tazi Canyon or Selge if sufficient time remains

• Return to Antalya

Booking a rafting tour with transfer simplifies the transport arrangements. Depending on the hotel location, the complete day may take approximately 9–12 hours.

How Should You Plan a Köprülü Canyon Visit?

Check the following before travelling:

• Weather and rainfall forecast

• River and rafting conditions

• Hotel pickup time

• Total tour duration

• Age and health requirements

• Lunch

• Safety equipment

• Insurance

• Change of clothes and shoes

• Photography and video charges

• Camping and barbecue rules

• Wildfire restrictions

• Return transfer

• Whether Selge or Tazi Canyon is included

Visitors who want to combine rafting with buggy safari and zipline can explore the Antalya Köprülü Canyon Rafting, Buggy Safari and Zipline Tour.

Travellers who want rafting, zipline, buggy and jeep safari in the same programme can compare the transport, lunch, equipment and participation conditions of the Antalya Full Adventure Tour.

For other attractions in the region, explore Maxtoria’s guide to the best places to visit in Manavgat or compare Antalya tours and activities.